What is counselling and psychotherapy? Who uses it and what for? Find out what it is and how it can help you with anxiety, anger management or depression. James Banyard Counselling in Exeter, UK

1. Who, What, When?
Five Things People ALWAYS Want To Know About Counselling
existential-counselling.co.uk /blog
1. What is counselling?
Counselling is a type of talking therapy. It is different from psychiatry because it
does not involve medication. It is a special type of conversation which mainly
uses words, but can involve drawing, role playing or other creative methods. It is
the counsellor’s job to create a safe relationship so that the other person can
talk about what is troubling them. Having the space to talk about difficult things in
our lives can be very helpful.
2. What is counselling for?
Counselling can be useful for anyone who has troubling things to talk about. It
may be difficult to talk to close friends and family and so it can be useful to have
someone outside of the situation to listen in a non-judgemental way.
3. What is it about counselling that works?
Having the space to talk about worries, with a warm and compassionate person
can help us feel better about those worries. Sitting down and focussing on
ourselves can help us to put into words things we may have been ignoring. Doing this for an hour a week can often
help people make sense of their lives.
4. Where can I find a therapist?
There are a number of good online directories which list local counsellors in your area and tell you about their
experience. The BACP and Counselling Directory are two good places to start. Your GP can help make a referral to
local talking therapies services which are free, but you may have to wait to see a counsellor.
5. Is it depressing being a counsellor?
I don’t find it depressing being a counsellor. I take great hope from the resourcefulness of the people I see and their
ability to make changes in their lives. It is important for counsellors to look after themselves though and to make sure
their personal problems are not getting in the way of listening.
“What things have you always wanted to know about counselling?”